Although it has more than its fair share of grand plans, Saadiyat Island has so far been no more than a blip on the radar for many Dhabians. True, it boasts art space Manarat Al Saadiyat, and an excellent golf course, but it has so far offered nothing to warrant the long drive out there for the city’s dedicated hedonists – especially when compared with bigger sister Yas Island – home to Flash Forum, Yas Arena and the ever-popular Allure.
That, of course, has all changed with the opening of Monte Carlo Beach Club. The club’s dedicated night spot, Sea Lounge, is already proving a big draw for the capital’s party people – and MustHaveSoul and Audio Tonic have abandoned their former homes and set up shop there. Always in the mood for a party, we went along to check it out.
The club’s website boasts that it embodies ‘luxury, exclusivity, quality and value of membership’, and is designed to celebrate the finer things in life. Quite a claim – and one it seems to live up to. It is luxurious but chic, steering clear of the in-your-face opulence that’s present in many of the city’s most famous venues: think clean lines, high ceilings and beautiful timber features. The decor aims to reflect that of its sister hotels and clubs in Monaco, albeit with an Arabian feel, and Sea Lounge’s contemporary design is modelled on that of its Monaco counterpart.
The space comes complete with DJ facilities and an open lounge deck that connects to a vast lawn for entertaining larger crowds. Daytime visitors to this outdoor venue can enjoy light snacks and drinks under the sun-shaded veranda, but it’s not until nightfall that it really comes to life. The who’s who of Abu Dhabi’s DJ scene already have slots lined up here. Sunday to Wednesday evenings, resident DJ Natalie Brogan spins the decks, keeping the girls entertained with her usual mix of house tunes on Tuesday’s ladies night. The weekend kicks off on a Thursday with Audio Tonic, while Friday is the night for some more soulful house as the MustHaveSoul DJs hit the decks.
Audio Tonic’s DJ Raxon is particularly enthusiastic about the new venue. ‘Sea Lounge is quickly becoming my favourite place to DJ, especially now as the weather is starting to become cooler,’ he says. ‘It is such a beautiful beachside venue.’ We certainly can’t argue – the stunning white sands and sea views are a world away from the usual smoky clubs, and make it the perfect place to unwind with a blend.
It’s not all about dancing the night away, though – the club’s Bubbles Bar, which looks out on to the sparkling pool, is also worth a visit for a more laid-back night out. Alternatively, if you like to keep the guest list exclusive, the club also has a number of function areas for receptions, lunches and formal dinners, with room for up to 250 people.
General manager Patrick Nayrolles says has already seen a lot of interest for private events. ‘The concept of the beach club is one that Abu Dhabi has been waiting for,’ he says. ‘We have parties planned for the Formula One with a Monaco theme that we are really looking forward to.’
With the club already pulling in Abu Dhabi’s most stylish and sophisticated crowds, it seems Sea Lounge is going from strength to strength as the city’s new go-to party spot. Watch this space…
Monte Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat Island, www.montecarlobeachclub.ae (02 656 3500)
